The big 5-0! We wanted to celebrate our friend’s milestone birthday in a way that would be memorable, adventurous, entertaining, and, of course, filled with laughter and amazing food. With a jam-packed two-day itinerary and a full tank of gas, we began our 5½-hour drive from Toronto to Montreal.

Stop #1: Brockville Railway Tunnel
Three hours into our journey, we made a pit stop at the Brockville Railway Tunnel, Canada’s first railway tunnel, completed in 1860. This hidden gem in Ontario offers a free experience (donations are welcome), and it was a perfect addition to our itinerary.

As we entered the tunnel, we were greeted by a mesmerizing light show paired with calming music. The tranquil colors reflecting off the stone walls were simply enchanting. We couldn’t resist stopping every few steps to capture photos and videos, though none truly did the experience justice. The walk took about 30 minutes one way, and we enjoyed reading the informative signage detailing the tunnel’s history along the way. This was an unforgettable start to our adventure!

Hotel Check-In: Residence Inn by Marriott, Montreal Airport
We arrived in Montreal and checked into the Residence Inn by Marriott near the airport. To our delight, we were graciously upgraded to a spacious two-bedroom suite. One bedroom featured a king-size bed, the other had two queen beds, and—most importantly—there were two bathrooms! For five ladies, this was a dream come true. The suite also had a full kitchen, complete with a fridge, stove, dishwasher, and sink.

Dinner at Tropikal
After settling in, we headed downtown for dinner at Tropikal, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant. We were immediately drawn to the vibrant garden wall backdrop at the entrance and made sure to capture a group photo under the neon sign.

The restaurant’s ambiance was warm and inviting, with soft lighting and a live DJ adding to the atmosphere. We started with appetizers—Plantain Stuffed with Callaloo and Ackee—and unanimously chose the Taste of the Islands Ital Bowl as our main dish. This flavorful bowl featured lentils, pumpkin, rice and peas, curry channa, Jamaican callaloo, ackee, cucumber chow, and sweet plantains. I added oxtail to mine, and every bite was a treat for the senses.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we headed back to the hotel to unwind and prepare for the next day.

Day Two: Exploring Old Montreal
We began Saturday with a complimentary hot breakfast at the hotel before driving to Old Montreal for a walking tour. Our guide was theatrical and engaging, making the city’s history, culture, and architecture come alive. She also gave us excellent tips on where to find the best maple syrup, bagels, and local cuisine.

After the tour, we explored Old Montreal at our own pace. The cobblestone streets, historical landmarks, charming bistros, and welcoming locals gave the area a European charm.

Sightseeing Cruise & Poutine
Next, we rested our feet on a guided sightseeing cruise along Montreal’s picturesque waterways. The captain and guide shared fascinating insights about the city while we enjoyed drinks onboard. After the 45-minute ride, we were famished and made a beeline for Resto Bar Montreal Poutine.

The rustic charm of the restaurant matched the warm hospitality of our host. We ordered Poutine with Grilled Chicken and Poutine with Smoked Meat. Let’s just say there wasn’t a single fry left behind—absolutely “très bien”!

Barbie Expo
If you’re a Barbie fan, don’t miss the Barbie Expo in downtown Montreal. This free exhibit showcases hundreds of Barbies dressed in designer fashions, celebrity-inspired outfits, and international attire. Of course, we couldn’t resist posing in the life-sized Barbie box for some fun photos!

Dinner at Bord’Elle
Our final dinner was at Bord’Elle Restaurant and Night Club, a venue with a glamorous Moulin Rouge vibe. We opted for valet parking since finding a spot downtown can be tricky. The ambiance was stunning, with dazzling décor and live entertainment.

While the food initially arrived lukewarm, the staff addressed our concerns and brought out a warmer set of dishes along with an extra plate of beef short ribs and five complimentary shots. The birthday girl was also treated to a decadent Royal Caramel Cheesecake, which we all shared—it was absolutely scrumptious.

The highlight of the evening? We spotted Toronto Raptors player Scottie Barnes! Although he politely declined our request for a photo, it was still a fun brush with celebrity.

Overall, our night at Bord’Elle was filled with sophistication, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

The Verdict
This girls’ trip to Montreal was everything we hoped for: memorable, adventurous, and brimming with good vibes and great food. From history and culture to indulgence and fun, Montreal delivered on all fronts.